Compulsory modules

Animal Anatomy and Physiology
This module introduces you to the vast diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate animals and takes a comparative approach to the study of their structure and function.  This forms the underpinning knowledge of animal biology that later modules in your degree build upon. Data presentation and analysis and group working are vital employability skills developed on the module as you link practical work undertaken in the lab and field to theory content. 

Human Physiology and Anatomy 
The module will introduce you to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. You will also explore how different pathologies can develop as a result of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Through group-based activities you will produce content on select module topics, developing key skills in teamwork and leadership, and in communicating to different audiences.   

Cells, Genetics and Evolution 
Embarking on the study of biology from a genes to ecosystems level requires knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts in biology. From the structure and function of biological macromolecules, cellular organisation and division, foundations of genetics to evolutionary theory and the organisation of life. This module gives you the underpinning knowledge and skills you’ll need as you start your exciting journey into the biological world. You will develop scientific report writing skills as you write up key practical experiments that support the module content. 

Ecology 
Commence an exhilarating journey into ecology, delving into organisms' habitats, interactions, and environmental dynamics. Learning about plants and organisms will give you an insight into the world around you. This foundational module introduces key ecological concepts, laying the groundwork for advanced studies in your degree programme. Engage in immersive fieldwork, enriching lectures, and hands-on workshops to deepen your understanding of the natural environment. Enhance your writing, fieldwork techniques, and ecological comprehension as you unravel nature's mysteries with us. 

Practical and Academic Skills in Bioscience 
In this module you will develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support your development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops will support you in reflecting on your key skills development and career-planning.  

Compulsory modules

Field Biology 
The safe and ethical study of biology in the field is a vital skill in much of the biosciences and essential for those seeking a career in ecology and conservation. This module takes you on a summer field course, part of which uses Keele’s wonderful campus, to study in a range of terrestrial and marine aquatic habitats. In addition to developing vital surveying and species identification skills in groups, you will also collaborate on a field biology hypothesis-driven project, which is excellent preparation for your final year research project. 

Microbes Viruses and Parasites 
Here you will study the biology of bacteria, viruses and parasites, considering a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. You will explore approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences will be developed through the produce content on a select module topic. 

Applications of Molecular Biology 
In this module, you will explore how we can study and manipulate genetic material, from sequencing technologies to gene cloning and genetic engineering. You will learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules and produce novel gene products such as therapeutics. Through tutorials and workshops, you will develop skills in introductory bioinformatic tools, whilst also considering some important ethical principles, developing key reasoning and analytical skills.    

Research and Analytical Skills 
This module brings together skills of experimental design and data analysis which are a vital step in the process of scientific research. In this module you will explore the different forms of scientific experimental design that you may encounter in your final year experimental projects. The data analysis skills you will hone will be essential in your final year and onwards into postgraduate study or employment in a data-driven world. 

Current Topics in Biology 
A broad range of biological challenges facing society today will be featured in a series of expert talks. Advantages and disadvantages of science-based solutions will be considered. After each of these, you will discuss what you have heard with your peers in debate seminars. You will summarise and then synthesise topics of your choice. Skills in critical thinking, information processing and public speaking and will be developed and awareness of science in society increased. 

Biodiversity Crisis 
Explore the pressing question of a potential sixth mass extinction, where you will learn all about human impacts on our environment. Uncover the essence of biodiversity and its measurement, examining global threats to biodiversity through compelling case studies. Navigate endangered organisms and habitats deeply through in-depth analyses. Gain key employability skills, including data analysis using the IUCN Red List database and participation in journal clubs fostering communication, leadership, and critical thinking. 

Practical and Professional Skills in Bioscience 
This module will expand your practical skills through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations applying key skills and competencies to more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Through additional workshops, you will develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Further sessions will also support you in evaluating your career readiness with employability skills-focused workshops in areas including CV writing and interview technique. 

Optional modules

Animal Behaviour 
In this module we will delve into the study of animal behaviour. Through lectures, field trips, and labs you'll learn how animals behave in different environments, from zoos to wild settings and why they behave the way they do. This module will teach you how to ask questions about animal behaviour, formulate hypotheses, then test them by observing and analysing animal behaviour whilst using rigorous research methods. By module end, you'll possess vital research skills applicable to diverse animal-related careers, such as research, conservation, and ecological consulting. 

Human Genetics 
In this module, you will look at some of the applications of key genetic concepts at the level of the individual and the population. Focusing mainly on medical genetics, you’ll learn how a person's genetic make-up can affect their health and how to estimate genetic risk and explore some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study of, diagnosis of and treatment of genetic diseases. You will develop group working and communication skills as your progress through the teaching and learning on the module. 

Molecular Ecology and Plant Genetics 
Advances in molecular biology, analysis and sharing of genomic data have important applications in the plant, ecological and conservation sciences. You will study how genetic and genomic tools, both in the lab and at the desktop, are being used to enhance our understanding of plant biology and ecological processes. The module will help you to think in a ‘genes to ecosystems’ framework and prepare you for careers in a big data, post-genomic world. 

Animal Adaptations 
On Animal Adaptations you will study physiological and behavioural adaptations of a range of vertebrate and invertebrate animals to challenges presented by various harsh environmental conditions. Key themes of the module are explored in theory and in lab practicals. You will further develop skills of data collection, analysis and presentation.  You will also explore how to present technical scientific information linked to the module themes to different audiences. 

Nutrition and Health 
In this module, you will explore the critical roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in nutrition and health. You will learn about diseases associated with imbalanced nutrient intake, the effects of alcohol metabolism, and the impact of nutrition on development from pregnancy through aging. You will study the molecular mechanisms of ageing, nutrient requirements at different life stages, and the relationship between nutrition and diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions. This module will provide you with essential insights into the interplay between diet and health throughout the lifespan.

Flexible work placement and professional training (level 5) 
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial. This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. You will be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. This module has built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement around existing demands.  

Compulsory modules

Research Project 
Your research project is an excellent opportunity for you to carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research drawing together skills in experimental study design, critical interpretation of data and presentation. You can choose from a range of projects, depending on your interests/career ambitions, including lab- or field-based research, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, teaching and learning, or outreach. In addition to a project report, you will also present outcomes as an oral presentation and research poster at our undergraduate student conference.

Employability and Communication Skills in Bioscience 
Whatever your interests or future career, communication is vital. This module helps to develop skillsets needed to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. We explore a range of communication methods to present and disseminate findings to inform and enthuse both a scientific and lay audience. We aim to develop a suite of valuable transferrable skills for the employment market and ensure those who truly understand scientific issues are heard. 

Professional Development in Bioscience 
This module will develop your professional skills, attributes and qualities required for your next steps following graduation. You will have the opportunity to practice interview techniques and presentation skills to support your covering letters, personal statements and CV. You will explore online opportunities and the employment marketplace, building your social media profile to evidence your skills and attributes. Throughout the module, you will also consider the impact of discrimination and unconscious bias and develop strategies to support resilience and wellbeing.  

Optional modules

Case Studies in Biotechnology 
In this module, you will explore some of the applications of biotechnology to address global issues.  Guided by seminars and case studies, you will tailor your research to your own interests, picking an overarching theme and selecting papers from the primary literature showcasing biotechnology. You will develop scientific writing skills to introduce your theme, summarise the chosen papers and justify why you think they are important with a focus on communication skills and demonstration of critical insight into contemporary biotechnology approaches.  

Tropical Biology Field Course  
This module allows you to explore the vibrant world of tropical ecology first-hand and join an exciting opportunity to explore firsthand the challenges facing tropical ecosystems and how humanity impacts them. You will learn from leading experts about the critical role of biodiversity in these lush environments. Experience international travel and immerse yourself in diverse cultures. Hosted by the University of Sains Malaysia (USM), this field course, which comes at an additional cost to be confirmed each year, promises cutting-edge knowledge in tropical ecology and conservation.  

Conservation Biology 
Dive into conservation biology, exploring biodiversity and conservation in the face of human impacts. Engage in a real-world ecological consultancy scenario as the core of your assessment, honing skills through fieldwork, research, and tutorials. Craft a biodiversity net gain report for a site of ecological and historical significance, mirroring the tasks of a professional ecological consultant. Delve into conservation with guest speakers, gaining firsthand insights into this multifaceted domain. Experience conservation work firsthand and broaden your understanding of this vital field. 

Insect Ecology and Pest Management 
Insects are fascinating because of their enormous diversity of forms and lifestyles with over a million species worldwide. We will learn about some adaptations that explain their success as well as how to manage pest and beneficial insects that affect human activities. This will develop skills in both basic understanding of insect ecology and skills that could open careers in managing insects because new solutions are needed to reduce dependency on pesticides. 

Animals and Society 
Non-human animals interact with humans on a daily basis as wildlife, livestock, food, clothing, companions, beasts of burden, entertainment and therapy. Animals and Society draws from research in human-animal studies and animal geographies to explore and understand these complex relationships across space and time. As well as drawing from academic expertise and campaigning experiences, the interactive lecture series includes insights from guest speakers. 

Ecotoxicology and Risk Assessment 
What concentration of substance X will cause environmental harm, and what will not? Ecotoxicology and risk assessment is how we determine the answers and, ultimately, develop environmental quality standards that underpin environmental regulation and assessment. Through this module you will gain knowledge, skills and hands-on experience of conducting ecotoxicology laboratory protocols (terrestrial and aquatic systems), constructing and interpreting dose response curves, sourcing and evaluating ecotoxicology data, deriving Predicted No Effect Concentrations (PNECs), and producing a risk assessment report. 

Human Parasitology 
In this module, you will explore the theoretical and practical aspects of parasitic diseases of humans, considering such topics as the life cycle of select parasites between vector and host, the pathogenesis of parasitic infection and their diagnosis and treatment. You will also investigate challenges to effective treatment and transmission control, including socio-economic and cultural factors. Through evaluation of current research in the subject, you will develop higher-level skills in the critical analysis and interpretation of data. 

Cancer Biology 
This module will introduce you to the field of cancer biology, exploring the molecular and cellular hallmarks of cancer and how the understanding of these is beginning to inform novel therapeutic development. You will investigate the latest developments in basic cancer research in understanding changes in cellular activity associated with cancer development and progression, and the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of this. Key skills developed include the location, evaluation and comparative analysis of published scientific literature.  

Human Evolution 
Have you ever wondered how you came to be a member of the only species we know that lives in a highly complex, global, and technological society? This module tracks human evolution from the earliest fossil hominids, encountering many extinct ancestors along the way. You will critically evaluate fossil, archaeological and genomic evidence supporting numerous evolutionary theories and review the latest discoveries in this fast-moving field, gathering skills to help prepare for a diverse range of career opportunities. 

Animal Welfare 
This module will develop your knowledge of legislation and current topics in animal welfare. It will help you appreciate the social, political and moral dimensions of animal welfare, bridging the gap between science and ethics in the animal industry. A journal club format will help you to sensitively approach complex issues, handle nuance and build your own opinions, based on scientific fact. Building on your previous studies, this module will help prepare you for a broad range of animal-related careers. 

Blue Economy sustainable futures with an ocean focus 
Growing interest in ocean and coastal development needs collaboration because of the interconnectivity of marine spaces and ecosystems. Blue Economy approaches are presented as “sustainable” but are contested. You will explore the wonders and complexities of our blue planet and develop evidence-based analysis of, and advocacy for, a sustainable ocean. Topics build from concepts through case studies towards you advocating a position on an issue and the prospects for an ocean-focused sustainable future. 

Environmental and Wildlife Forensics 
Through this module, you will have the opportunity to apply your forensic expertise to environmental and wildlife crime, exploring topics ranging from industrial contamination of land to the illegal trade of exotic animal products. We will equip you with the skills to investigate environmental crime scenes, interrogate a range of natural and artificial evidence types, and to combine different types of data to protect the environment and wildlife in the U.K. and beyond. 

Plant Science and Sustainability 
This module takes an applied and integrated approach, examining green production systems from the plant science, ecology, and sustainable land management perspectives. You will explore some of the big questions of today, such as how we can feed a growing population without sacrificing ecosystem functioning. Lectures will involve case studies and ongoing research in food production, pest management, and plant-human interactions. You will enhance verbal and written communication skills through facilitated class debates and producing materials for different target audiences. 

Work placement and Professional Training (level 6) 
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial. This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. You will be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. This module has built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands. 

Work Placement and Professional Training in Education 
This module gives students interested in pursuing teaching or training as a career the opportunity to gain experience in the world of teaching in schools and colleges. You will develop skills highly valued by employers such as communication, and interpersonal skills, whilst learning to address individual needs and developing engaging teaching materials. You will be supported via a range of activities to prepare for your placement and have the choice to source your own placement or apply to university sourced roles. 

Work Placement and Professional Training Year 
Employers value candidates with practical skills and workplace understanding.  The Natural Sciences Placement Year gives you the opportunity to undertake a placement between year 2 and 3 of your course, enabling you to experience the world of work in an area aligned to your academic, or career preferences. You will have access to expert advice and guidance on how to find a placement, application and interview preparation via personalised and group activities, plus ongoing support throughout your placement, and beyond.